The Eldoret Experience

It has been a relaxing and fun weekend. We decided not to go to Nakuru this weekend and stayed in town to get settled in and meet some of the people around here. We have made many Kenyan friends- they are great!

Last night we went to a Chinese restaurant that is frequently dined in by the IU House residents. It was very good, and I'm sure we will go there more. I had chili shrimp- probably one of the best shrimp dishes I've had! Following dinner, we went to a local club called Places. It was actually pretty similar to an American club- there was a bar, dancing, etc. The Kenyans are amazing dancers! I am glad we went with our Kenyan friends- they introduced us to more people, showed us around, etc.

Today, Messai and I slept until about 12:30pm- I think we needed the rest! We studied a little bit so we can be more prepared for rounds and presentations next week, and we also went on a run. The elvation definitely takes a toll on your lungs! The air feels "thinner," so even a small workout is pretty tiring. We ran by some local farms and schools, and a few children ran up to us and said "we'll run with you!" They ran along side us talking for a couple minutes and it was a highlight of the run. We thought we would get lost, but we made it and were pretty proud! Tonight we went to dinner at a club called Klique, and had pizza. It was actually pretty good, and there is a lounge where we could enjoy a Tusker (Tusker = Kenyan beer). We also went here with a Kenyan friend who likes to play basketball with Will. He is a med student and showed us where he lives- it is actually similar to American dorms. I love learning about the Kenyan culture and sharing some American culture as well. Our Kenyan friends are very up to date with the news in the US- in fact they may do a better job than I do keeping up on current events.

I am looking forward to getting to know more Kenyans and residents at the IU House. Everyone has been very friendly, and I know there are more great experiences to come. Messai and I might try to go to a Kenyan church tomorrow morning, or at least some time before we leave here. Will discovered where Obama's Grandmother lives, and we may be able to go talk to her some time as well. Every day we find out about another adventure we can pursue, but we also learned taht staying in Eldoret provides many adventures in itself!

More to come soon. Love to all in the US!